CAVC Renovation plans on introducing six new programs to its lineup within the next two to three years

“As part of the expansion to the vocational center, we are looking to renovate the existing space, in addition to building a new space,” said Vocational Center Principal Joe McGinnis.

The vocational facility, built in 1971, introduces students to their first opportunity to jump into career and technical education courses that provide foundational skills for all of the courses offered to prepare them for a future career in their desired field.

The C.A.V.C. program is already home to a wide variety of classes students can take, among which include the Cosmetology course, Criminal Justice course, Foods classes, and auto mechanics and welding courses. However, with this new upgrade, at least six new programs will be added to their program, including a return of the HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) course, aviation mechanics, Urban agriculture, renewable energy installation, veterinary assistant, and any future courses that will be available to our student body, and some surrounding schools.

“There are currently two unused classrooms in the addition and the renovation plan. These will be utilized once we look at the workforce needs at the end of the project.” Mr. McGinnis stated.

Currently, the programs within the vocational area assist about 540 students. With the expansion, that number is expected to increase to 800 students, including the eight other schools served by our program, including Bethalto, Edwardsville, Triad, and Highland, just to name a few.

The location for this new building is currently under consideration with the property adjacent to the current CHS campus, just across the road from our football field. Students will be expected to cross the road via tunnel or bridge, decisions on safe transportation are still under consideration.

Understandably, the five-minute passing period allowed to students is a considerably large ask for students who have to travel across campus. However, logistics are still being discussed to accommodate these students.

The plans for these new renovations are for both the new and existing programs, and the ground will likely be broken around April of the upcoming 2024 year.